Assistant Cheese Maker

Job Summary:

The Assistant Cheese Maker supports licensed cheesemakers in producing high-quality cheese products in compliance with Wisconsin state regulations, company standards, and food safety programs. This role involves preparing ingredients, monitoring production steps, maintaining sanitation, and assisting with equipment operation while learning the technical skills of cheesemaking.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

Production Support

• Assist with preparing milk for pasteurization.

• Measure and add cultures, enzymes, and salt as directed by the licensed cheesemaker.

• Help monitor curd formation, cutting, stirring, and cooking processes.

• Assist in weighing, packaging, and labeling finished cheese.

Quality Assurance

• Perform basic tests on milk and cheese (pH, temperature, texture) as directed.

• Record batch data and maintain accurate production logs.

• Report any irregularities or deviations from quality standards to the licensed cheesemaker.

Sanitation & Safety

• Clean and sanitize vats, EFV's, equipment aids, utensils, and work areas according to SOPs and GMPs.

• Follow HACCP, SQF, and other food safety guidelines.

• Safely handle cleaning chemicals and dairy equipment.

Equipment Handling

• Assist in operating and maintaining cheesemaking machinery.

• Help with daily start-up, shutdown, and minor maintenance tasks.

Learning & Development

• Gain hands-on training in cheese varieties, production methods, and quality control.

• Work toward obtaining a Wisconsin Cheesemaker License (if desired for career progression).

Qualification/Requirements:

Required

• High school diploma or equivalent.

• Ability to follow instructions precisely and work in a fast-paced environment.

• Basic knowledge of food safety and sanitation practices.

Preferred

• Prior experience in dairy, food manufacturing, or agriculture.

• Interest in pursuing Wisconsin Cheesemaker licensing.

• Familiarity with HACCP, GMPs, and dairy plant operations.

Physical Requirements

Lifting: The ability to lift 50 lbs minimum

Standing/Walking: The ability to stand or walk for 12 hours

Sitting: The ability to sit for prolonged periods of time

Reaching/Crouching: The ability to reach for items, crouch, or stoop

Vision/Hearing/Read: The ability to see, hear, read clearly

Navigation: The ability to move safely over different terrains

Climbing: The ability to climb ladders, stairs or other structures

Work Environment: Temperatures (70°F - 125°F) & wet

Job Type: Full-time

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• 401(k) matching
• Dental insurance
• Employee assistance program
• Health insurance
• Health savings account
• Life insurance
• Paid time off
• Retirement plan
• Vision insurance

Education:

• High school or equivalent (Preferred)

Experience:

• Cheese Making: 1 year (Preferred)

Work Location: In person